tomahawk question

[cavscout]

I want to get a hawk and learn to throw it? i have been looking at them for a while and there are lots of different kinds and sizes. my question is what would be a good one to get for learning learning how to throw one. type and size? i don't care about wearing it or if it is pc or not, since all i want it for is to throw it here at the house. thanks

 

[Ridge]

If that's what you want I'd just get an HB.

 

[cavscout]

What is an HB??

 

[Stumpkiller]

For throwing, pick one with a cheap handle that has conveniently available replacements (no, I'm not kidding). Anything that takes the available-most-sutlers 18 to 19" hickory will do. A 4" sharp edge is called for at most events, so it's good to start there. Other than that, it really doesn't matter. There are cast and forged, and four or so variations on how thay can be forged. Most that size are a pound head, give or take a few ounces.

Throwing is not what I use a tomahawk for, so I look for other features.

 

[Birddog6]

He is referring to one made by H B Forge. They are good throwing hawks. You may as well order 3-4 handles at the same time as you will need them ........ I prefer a 19" handle.

Oh, and even thou you have a desire to, don't throw it at the house..... It makes a nasty hole....

 

[hornetk4]

After reading the responses so far about the only other thing I might ad is , if you can afford it buy 2 or three of whatever style you decide on . That way the learning process won't be so tiring , having to run back and fourth to pick up the hawk between throws . I'm not sure weather you would all three to be of the same type or maybe three different types to make your practice more well rounded . from what i've seen at the local rondys is people throwing several types , maybe someone has a thought on this?

 

[tobias]

You can find good throwing hawks at several online company sites. Crazy Crow, Wandering Bull just to name a few. They are relatively inexpensive and are a good place to start. I was taught to throw by a lifelong rendezvous/re-enactor. The first thing he told me was to trim the handle down or obtain one long enough that it extends from the tips of your fingers to the bend in you elbow. This gives it the proper weight distribution ratio. I am sure there are other opinions on this tho.

The counsel on getting several handles is dead on and if as another writer suggested, you can obtain two or three hawks is another great suggestion because it does get boring after a few throws when you have to walk down the path after every toss. Just remember as you begin practicing to throw with your opposite foot forward. In other words if you are left handed then make your throw as your right foot is coming down in the forward motion and vice versa if you are right handed. Just keep practicing until you have mastered the throw up close and then move back a few steps until you reach "your" maximum effective distance.

A man was able to defend himself and his family a few years back against an firearmed assailant, by putting the hawk right in the X ring from several feet away. The DA in the case said that while the hawk was an unusual weapon, the man nor his family could escape or evade the assailant and the hawk thrower had no other choice in defending himself. Bleeding heart liberals cried foul and the case went forward until a reasonable thinking judge wound up with the case. He threw it out immediately with praise going to the man and severe chastisement to the DA for bowing to the pressures of a special interest group. The judge said that given the same set of circumstances he would have done exactly the same thing.

I love my hawk and it adds to the "feel" when I have it out and at hand when my smoke pole is a smokin.